There is no better way to explore the US than a springtime road trip. The comfortable weather, vibrant wildflower blooms, and wildlife ensure unforgettable adventures. We’ve compiled a list of 15 Instagram-worthy road trips for spring and beyond that will take you through memorable journeys, whether exploring with family or friends.
Historic Route 66, Arizona
Arizona boasts the longest stretch of the Historic Route 66, spanning 385 miles from Lupton on the state’s border with New Mexico to near Kingman. With offerings ranging from rugged peaks and desert landscapes to charming small towns with quirky attractions, the road is incredibly Insta-worthy. The Painted Desert, famous for its striking geologic features, is among the most scenic attractions on Arizona’s Historic Route 66.
Texas Hill Country
From rolling hills and lush forests to scenic rivers, natural springs, and wine, a road trip through the Texas Hill Country will blow your mind. It’s more Insta-worthy in springtime when the region is brimming with vibrant blooms – natural splendor is at its best. The road trip begins in Austin, meandering through Fredericksburg to San Antonio.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
Exploring the entire 650-mile Pacific Coast Highway may sound daunting, but the numerous Insta-worthy stops make it worth a try. From dramatic, towering cliffs to unbeatable ocean vistas to photogenic towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, so much beauty, seaside charm, and wildlife encounters await along this road.
Miami to the Florida Keys via the Overseas Highway
A spring trip along the scenic Overseas Highway takes you through some of Florida’s most stunning landscapes. The road stretches over 100 miles from Miami over 42 astonishing bridges to the Florida Keys. It’s the gateway to the Keys’ thrilling water adventure, natural wonders, and historical treasures.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
There is no better way to admire Shenandoah National Park’s breathtaking scenery than Skyline Drive. You enjoy sweeping views of the Blue Ridge, the expansive Shenandoah Valley, and some portions of the iconic Appalachian Trail from the road. At the end of Skyline Drive, another scenic adventure along the Blue Ridge Parkway begins. You can take this Instagram-worthy spring road trip from Washington, D.C., only about one and a half hours away.
Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls is one of North America’s most beautiful and Instagrammed destinations. It comprises three waterfalls. Horseshoe Falls, which lies on the US-Canada border, is the largest. Beyond its natural beauty, Niagara Falls has historical significance – the region is home to some of the bloodiest war grounds from 1812. The Niagara Parkway, which meanders along the Niagara River, has scenic stops to pull over and admire the waterfalls.
Utah National Parks
A road trip through Utah’s Mighty Five (Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Zion, and Bryce Canyon National Parks) is a must-do in spring. You will travel through the state’s most stunning and diverse landscapes, from scenic desert hikes to surreal geological features to ancient ruins. It will be a multi-day trip, but an adventure of a lifetime!
Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park Road Trip
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier, three of America’s most visited national parks. These parks offer unique and diverse scenery, from Yellowstone’s geysers and hot springs to Glacier’s alpine majesty to the grandeur of the Tetons. There is so much to discover in these parks, and considering how vast America’s first national park is, you will need at least 10 days to explore these wonders. You may start your journey in Jackson Hole and end it in Bozeman, Montana.
Badlands via Badlands Loop Road
Badlands National Park boasts over 240,000 acres of unique and rugged beauty. The park is brimming with stunning natural features, from steep canyons to diverse wildlife to dramatic spires and buttes. You can visit the park anytime, but spring has the most striking scenery, and there is no better place to enjoy photo opportunities than the Badlands Loop Road.
Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA
A road trip from Charleston to Savannah is perfect for history buffs. These two of America’s oldest cities are among the top historic sites in the country. The gorgeous scenery between these towns, historic charm, and unique stops like Beaufort allow you to enjoy one of the most Instagram-worthy road trips in spring. The journey covers 108 miles.
Washington National Park Road Trip
A Washington National Park road trip takes you through the state’s beautiful national parks: Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades, three of the state’s top destinations. Road-tripping from Seattle boasts plenty of Insta-worthy stops, including charming towns, lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and more. Each national park has a wealth of unique offerings, from the Olympics’ wild coastline to the North Cascades’ rugged scenery.
Los Angeles to Las Vegas
Las Vegas is one of the best road-tripping destinations. A journey to the city from Los Angeles allows you to enjoy a unique blend of scenery, from LA’s vibrant urban atmosphere to Sin City’s desert surroundings. You’ll meander through Southern California’s charming beach towns, majestic mountain ranges, the Mojave Desert’s iconic terrain, and plenty of quirky attractions. Las Vegas is 270 miles from LA.
Scenic Route 100 Vermont Road Trip
Traversing nearly the entire length of Vermont, the Scenic Route 100 Byway is the state’s most beautiful road. Dubbed “Vermont’s Main Street,” the road reveals the authentic side of Vermont. It winds through the Green Mountains and New England’s quaint villages, giving you access to unique attractions and endless options for recreation along the way.
A Road Trip Through the Outer Banks, North Carolina
A road trip through the Outer Banks takes you through the archipelago’s barrier islands. You’ll travel via the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway, which takes about five hours to complete. The road offers a unique mix of rich history, breathtaking natural features, and seaside charm. You can laze on the beaches, stroll through the quaint small towns, discover wildlife, and explore museums.
Joshua Tree National Park
Thanks to Joshua Tree’s diverse, stunning scenery, from the iconic Joshua trees to unique rock formations, a road trip through the park is incredibly Instagram-worthy. It offers many outdoor recreational opportunities, including rock climbing and hiking. You can begin a road trip to this park from various places, including Palm Springs, Los Angeles, and San Antonio.
